The next federal government must cut corporate tax rates, slow spending and wrestle down the debt, says the country’s leading organization representing Canadian business.

In its own election platform to be released Wednesday, the Canadian Chamber of Commerce calls on federal parties to give businesses the tools to prosper at home and compete in the global economy.

“Some people believe that you have to choose between business and families. On the contrary, when Canada’s businesses are healthy, all Canadians benefit,” said Chamber President and CEO Perrin Beatty in a statement.

The report, called “2011 Election: The Canadian Business Game Plan,” notes that Canada’s economic recovery is “solid” and on track for the right balance between exports and domestic demand. It also points to improved consumer confidence and a growing job market as good signs.

While the report does not endorse any political party, it calls for the next government to “retain legislated business tax rate reductions” — a polarizing issue for the main parties in this campaign. The Liberal Party would roll back corporate tax rates to 2010 levels, while the Conservatives would continue to lower the rate to 15 per cent next year.

The rate was cut to 16.5 per cent on Jan. 1, 2011, from last year’s 18 per cent. Conservatives argue the decrease is necessary to keep job-creating businesses competitive, while the Liberals and NDP insist Canada’s corporate tax rates are already low compared to other leading economies and believe the billions would be better spent on social programs.

The Chamber report calls on the next federal government to reduce the debt-to-GDP ratio to 30 per cent or lower by 2015 and rein in program spending growth to less than two per cent annually beginning this fiscal year. It also warns that government policies are required to stir productivity growth — including a credible plan to balance the books, eliminate red tape, and open markets to foreign trade and investment. Specifically, the Chamber report urges the government to seal a trade deal with the European Union and strengthen ties with China, India and Japan.

On the environment, the Chamber calls on the federal government to finalize a home-grown climate change mitigation regime that “puts a price” on greenhouse gas emissions through a carbon tax or cap-and-trade system, and provides alternatives to compliance like an offset system or technology fund.

The Chamber also wants solid water and waste management plans, tougher anti-counterfeiting and anti-piracy legislation and reforms to employment insurance that don’t burden businesses with extra costs.